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In honor of Older Americans Month, the Division of Senior and Adult Services (DSAS) wanted to spotlight a Cuyahoga resident who embodies this year’s theme of “Age My Way.” We found the most amazing example in Centenarian Vaddie B. Todd. Todd was recently honored by the Cuyahoga Council, friends and relatives in celebration of her 105th birthday, which occurred on March 21, 2022.

Social isolation – also known as loneliness -- is a big contributor to declining health in older adults. Did you know that social isolation is as detrimental to one’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day? Lack of meaningful social interaction among older adults can lead to obesity, depression, sleeplessness and a downward spiral of issues. DSAS helps seniors get social. Our Community Social Services Program works with 36 community partners across the County to ensure adults age 60 and over have opportunities to engage with one another.

As we age, we can at times find ourselves in situations that put us in peril. Even the savviest, most independent of us can fall prey to any numbers of risks – from a physical injury, to a mental decline, a shady new acquaintance or a seasoned scam artist. While most people can safely navigate these pitfalls, some older adults need a helping hand to stay safe when these situations arise.

When the COVID-19 Pandemic forced government agencies and non-profits that assist people to close their doors to in-person services, the leadership at The Centers for Families and Children (The Centers), who administer the Child Development Associate Training got creative.

If you ever visited the Mt. Pleasant Center on Kinsman Avenue, more than likely you have sat in the Barbara S. Galloway Conference Room, located on the second floor of the facility. The woman for whom the conference room is named, has a legacy worthy of the recognition.

The Cuyahoga County Fatherhood Initiative partnered with the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the National Fatherhood Resource Center and Little Free Libraries for outstanding events last week. The goal was to promote the importance of fathers reading to their children, and it proved to be a huge success!